The last few days have been tough for Italian football, as Inter striker Milito was ruled out for at least six months by knee ligament damage and Imbriani lost his battle with leukaemia just five days after his 37th birthday.

“The day began with great disappointment for the news on Milito,” wrote Totti on his blog.

“Seeing the footage of the incident, the movement of the leg and the look of pain on his face, gripped my heart.

“Moments like this in the career of a sportsman represent torment. You’d have to go through it to understand… and it has happened to me.

“Il Principe is world class, tenacious and an exceptional player. I wish him all the best so he can be back on the field as soon as possible, as strong as ever.

“The worst blow came afterwards, when I heard at dawn on Friday that Imbriani had died. I got to know him and, believe me, hoped so much for him over the last year.

“The aggressive nature of the illness was astounding, but even more so the great dignity and strength with which he battled it. I sincerely embrace his loved ones and dedicate to him this memory full of pain.”

Napoli will wear black armbands and hold a minute’s silence before their game with Sampdoria on Sunday in memory of Imbriani.